Microwave Thyroid Ablation

Published with the inputs from Dr Jithu Subash Babu, Associate Consultant, Interventional Radiology, Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode

Microwave Thyroid Ablation is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment option for patients with non-cancerous thyroid nodules and recurrent cancerous thyroid nodules. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and is designed to treat thyroid nodules without surgical removal.

The treatment is carried out under ultrasound guidance in a sterile environment. It leaves no visible scars or marks, requires only a short hospital stay, and allows most patients to return to their normal routine shortly after the procedure.

What is Microwave Thyroid Ablation?

Microwave Thyroid Ablation is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure used to treat non-cancerous thyroid nodules and recurrent cancerous thyroid nodules. The procedure uses microwave energy to completely ablate the targeted thyroid nodule.

Who may be suitable for Microwave Thyroid Ablation?

According to the doctor, this treatment is offered for patients with:

• Non-cancerous thyroid nodules
• Recurrent cancerous thyroid nodules

For non-cancerous thyroid nodules, it is mainly performed for nodules classified as TIRADS 1, TIRADS 2, and up to TIRADS 3. Before considering this treatment, it is important to confirm that the nodule is not cancerous.

Can Microwave Thyroid Ablation be performed for all thyroid nodules?

The doctor explains that not all thyroid nodules are cancerous. Microwave Thyroid Ablation can be used for all non-cancerous thyroid nodules after confirming that the nodule is not cancerous.

How is Microwave Thyroid Ablation performed?

The patient lies on the procedure table in a sterile environment. The thyroid gland is first examined using ultrasound.

Watch Video: Microwave Thyroid Ablation: A Breakthrough Non-Surgical Treatment

Local anaesthesia is administered around the area of the thyroid nodule. After carefully evaluating the surrounding vital structures, the microwave ablation needle is inserted into the nodule under ultrasound guidance. Microwave energy is then used to completely ablate the nodule.

During the procedure, ultrasound imaging shows a "cloud formation" or "clouding," which helps confirm that the nodule has been completely ablated. Once the procedure is completed, the needle is removed, a small spot bandage is applied, and the patient is taken back to the room.

Is Microwave Thyroid Ablation a surgical procedure?

No. According to the doctor, Microwave Thyroid Ablation is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure performed under local anaesthesia.

Does the procedure leave a scar?

According to the doctor, the procedure leaves no scars or visible marks.

How long is the hospital stay?

Patients are usually observed for 4 to 6 hours after the procedure or may stay overnight, depending on their preference or clinical circumstances.

The procedure can also be planned with a one-night hospital stay for patients travelling long distances or for those who prefer overnight observation.

When can patients return to their normal activities?

According to the doctor, patients can usually return to their normal work, routine activities, and home the following day after the procedure.

Is general anaesthesia required?

No. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia.

For patients with very low pain tolerance, mild sedation may be administered. In such situations, an overnight hospital stay is generally advised for observation and management of any procedure-related discomfort or anaesthesia-related concerns.

Will the treated thyroid nodule come back after ablation?

According to the doctor, recurrence of the treated nodule has generally not been observed. Once a nodule has been completely ablated, it remains ablated.

However, depending on an individual's body mechanism, new thyroid nodules may develop in the future and may require treatment.

Are there risks associated with Microwave Thyroid Ablation?

The doctor explains that every treatment is offered only after carefully evaluating its risks and benefits. If the risks are considered high, the procedure is not recommended. Treatment is offered only when the expected benefits significantly outweigh the risks.

How does Microwave Thyroid Ablation compare with surgery?

According to the doctor, surgical removal was previously the primary treatment option for thyroid nodules. Microwave Thyroid Ablation now provides a non-surgical alternative for treating thyroid nodules without surgery.

Why do some patients prefer Microwave Thyroid Ablation?

The doctor explains that many patients choose this procedure because it avoids surgery and does not leave visible scars on the neck.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you have been diagnosed with a non-cancerous thyroid nodule or would like to know whether Microwave Thyroid Ablation is the right treatment option for you, consult the Interventional Radiology specialists at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) for a detailed evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) to speak with our experts and receive guidance tailored to your healthcare needs.